Rabies is a rare but deadly disease in the U.S., with less than 10 cases identified each year. Health officials warn the public to avoid contact with wild animals and seek immediate medical care if bitten, as the disease is almost always fatal once symptoms begin. A California teacher recently died from rabies after being bitten by a bat, prompting a warning from health officials. The woman found the bat in her classroom, and about a month later, she began feeling ill and eventually died. The California Department of Public Health urges residents to leave wild animals alone and take precautions if they come into contact with a bat. Symptoms of rabies can mimic the flu at first but progress to severe illness within two weeks, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, and ultimately death. It is important to seek medical care immediately if bitten by a wild animal, especially a bat, as thousands of people receive preventive treatment for rabies each year. The public is advised to contact local animal control if a bat is found and not to touch it, as well as to pay attention to any unusual behavior in animals that may indicate rabies.
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California teacher dies from rabies after being bitten by bat a month ago
